Central unilocular mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the mandible: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common salivary gland malignancy. Central
MEC (CMEC) is a rare tumor which affects women more than men and is more common in the
mandible. Most cases are histologically classified as low‑grade tumor and radiographically appear as
well‑defined unilocular or multilocular radiolucent lesion, although this tumor causes destruction
and metastasis to other organs. In this article, we present a rare case of CMEC in a 47‑year‑old
woman with unilocular radiolucent lesion of the mandible. Early and accurate diagnostic approach
in all lesions with clinical/radiographical bland appearance is important, and all possibilities such as
a malignant lesion should be considered.
Key Words: Mandible, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, salivary gland